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The vast majority of the cancers that affect the head and neck are known as squamous cell carcinomas. They are the most common type of cancer affecting the lining of the airways and upper digestive tract. These cancers are those affecting the lips, tongue, tonsil, palate, pharynx, larynx, sinuses, saliva glands and neck lymph nodes. Skin cancers on the face, scalp or neck are also considered to be head and neck cancers.
Although head and neck cancers make up only 7 percent of all cancers, their cosmetic changes and functional, economic and psychosocial consequences may affect the way patients live. UT Southwestern Medical Center doctors believe that treatment and follow-up care must focus not only on keeping patients free of cancer but also on restoring or preserving vital functions such as breathing, speaking and swallowing. Cosmetic concerns such as appearance, facial symmetry and contour are also of utmost importance to enhance patients’ quality of life.
UT Southwestern head and neck oncologists, together with our surgeons and physicians from our services, will do their utmost to restore patients’ hearing and balance and use of facial nerves as well as advising them on facial plastics and reconstruction when necessary.
UT Southwestern’s physicians and researchers have access to the latest scientific findings and treatments for head and neck cancer, including:
- Laryngeal cancer
- Lip and oral cavity cancer
- Nasopharyngeal cancer
- Paranasal sinus and nasal cavity cancer
- Parathyroid cancer
- Salivary gland cancer
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Thyroid cancer
Please visit the Health Library to learn more about head and neck cancer.
